Framework Agreement for the Provision of a Heat Decarbonisation Network Study

The University of Birmingham ("the University") is procuring a Framework to produce a Heat Decarbonisation Network Study. Work Package - Heat network and decarbonisation study; The purpose of this study is to establish how gas can be replaced as a source of heat generation with low/zero carbon alternatives and to develop a comprehensive plan and for the decarbonisation of the Edgbaston campus.

The study should assess a range of heat generation technologies, heat network solutions, and supporting infrastructure improvements required to achieve campus-wide decarbonisation. The output should provide a suite of options, supported by a techno-economic assessment of feasibility.

This assessment should include costs (capital and opex), carbon savings, key risks and constraints, implementation timescales, and overall viability, enabling informed decision making on the preferred pathway to decarbonisation. For each shortlisted option, the supplier shall provide an assessment of capital and operating costs, space and infrastructure requirements, operational and maintenance considerations, and any key constraints or dependencies.

It is expected that a range of technologies and solutions will be considered, with an assessment of their suitability and applicability across different buildings / areas of the campus. In producing the heat decarbonisation study, the supplier shall assess the impact of the proposed decarbonisation options on the campus electricity network.

This shall include any increase in electrical loads, and where on campus they could occur. The costs of the upgrade and work required to deliver any increase in capacity are outside the scope of this work package, being part of work package 2.

The roadmap shall set out clear actions, options, and sequencing, providing confidence that the measures are technically feasible, financially credible and deliverable. The roadmap shall identify opportunities for collaboration with third party heat network providers, assess potential funding and financing mechanisms, and provide the supporting evidence and business case information required to underpin future funding applications and investment decisions.

Engagement The University of Birmingham is inviting expressions of interest (EOI) from consultants in relation to this upcoming tender opportunity. Following the initial EOI stage, the University intends to produce a short list of around five consultants who will be invited to partake in the tender.

If you are interested in engaging with the University for this project, please register to our E-Tendering Portal (https://in-tendhost.co.uk/universityofbirmingham/aspx/Home) and express interest as directed against the Framework Agreement for the Provision of a Heat Decarbonisation Network Study. In submitting your expressions of interest: - 1 Please provide evidence of your ability to undertake this work and examples of similar commissions for comparable sites / organisations. 2 Please provide details of the approach you would propose in undertaking this commission including details of the methodology you will adopt, and how findings will be reported and options compared. Note: the University of Birmingham is operating as a Non-Contracting Authority and any process associated with this tender opportunity will be conducted outside of the Procurement Act 2023.